Conor Coady: Everton expect to complete signing of Wolves defender amid West Ham competition

Everton are closing in on the signing of Wolves defender Conor Coady. The 29-year-old is expected to join on an initial loan deal with an option to buy.

The deal could happen before Everton's next game against Aston Villa on Saturday.

Coady was dropped by Wolves manager Bruno Lage for Saturday's 2-1 defeat at Leeds as Max Kilman was paired with Nathan Collins in a four-man defence.

It was the first time that the 29-year-old has been left out by choice in a Wolves shirt since April 2017, and he remained an unused substitute at Elland Road.

Everton have beaten West Ham to his signature, with Coady wanting to end his seven-year spell at Molineux for a guarantee of first-team football ahead of the Qatar World Cup, and a potential England call-up.

Everton's need for a centre-back intensified after opening-day injuries to Ben Godfrey and Yerry Mina in their 1-0 home defeat to Chelsea.
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Godfrey suffered a fractured fibula while Mina has an ankle issue with the timeframe of their absences not yet known. It is understood the initial fee for Coady around £12m plus add-ons.

At his press conference on Friday, Lage said Coady was "still my captain" but accepted he had decisions to make about the structure of his team.

When asked if there was any truth in reports, Lage said: "It's only right and respectful not to answer on individuals.

"He's one of the best people I know in football. Today I can say he is a guy I will keep in my friendship, he is still my captain.

"I have massive respect for him. I need to take my decisions, but I cannot forget Coady or any player.

"It's not just about the World Cup, every player wants to play. Coady and all the players are focused and try to improve in a line of four. I have all my team motivated."

Asked whether Coady could leave, Lage added: "I really don't know. But I will respect him and understand what is best for him."

Who will be on the move this summer before the transfer window closes at 11pm on September 1.

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